Jan 20, 2019: Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Travis Dermott (23) celebrates with team mates at the bench after scoring against Arizona Coyotes in the first period at Scotiabank Arena. Dan Hamilton/USA TODAY Sports

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Jan 20, 2019: Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Travis Dermott (23) celebrates with team mates at the bench after scoring against Arizona Coyotes in the first period at Scotiabank Arena.
Dan Hamilton/USA TODAY Sports

Arizona Coyotes' Lawson Crouse (67) grimaces after being hit with a puck on his lower leg against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the second period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Lawson Crouse (67) grimaces after being hit with a puck on his lower leg against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the second period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Mario Kempe (29) has his shot blocked by Pittsburgh Penguins goalie Matt Murray in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Mario Kempe (29) has his shot blocked by Pittsburgh Penguins goalie Matt Murray in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Pittsburgh Penguins' Jake Guentzel (59) skates around the Arizona Coyotes defense and scores a goal in the second period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Pittsburgh Penguins' Jake Guentzel (59) skates around the Arizona Coyotes defense and scores a goal in the second period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Pittsburgh Penguins' Jake Guentzel (59) skates around the Arizona Coyotes defense and scores a goal in the second period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Pittsburgh Penguins' Jake Guentzel (59) skates around the Arizona Coyotes defense and scores a goal in the second period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Pittsburgh Penguins' Jake Guentzel (59) celebrates his goal the Arizona Coyotes in the second period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Pittsburgh Penguins' Jake Guentzel (59) celebrates his goal the Arizona Coyotes in the second period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Pittsburgh Penguins' Jake Guentzel (59) celebrates his goal the Arizona Coyotes in the second period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Pittsburgh Penguins' Jake Guentzel (59) celebrates his goal the Arizona Coyotes in the second period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland is pushed to the ice by Pittsburgh Penguins' Jack Johnson (73) in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland is pushed to the ice by Pittsburgh Penguins' Jack Johnson (73) in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Jakob Chychrun collides with Pittsburgh Penguins goalie Matt Murray in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Jakob Chychrun collides with Pittsburgh Penguins goalie Matt Murray in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Mario Kempe skates between Pittsburgh Penguins Brian Dumoulin (8) and Kris Letang (58) in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Mario Kempe skates between Pittsburgh Penguins Brian Dumoulin (8) and Kris Letang (58) in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes'Clayton Keller celebrates after scoring his 100th career point with Oliver Ekman-Larsson against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena. Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes'Clayton Keller celebrates after scoring his 100th career point with Oliver Ekman-Larsson against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena.
Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Lawson Crouse tries to make a shot from the ice against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Lawson Crouse tries to make a shot from the ice against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Pittsburgh Penguins goalie Matt Murray catches the shot by the Arizona Coyotes in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Pittsburgh Penguins goalie Matt Murray catches the shot by the Arizona Coyotes in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland battles for the puck with Pittsburgh Penguins Marcus Pettersson (28) and Riley Sheahan (15) in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland battles for the puck with Pittsburgh Penguins Marcus Pettersson (28) and Riley Sheahan (15) in the first period on Jan. 18 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

San Jose Sharks' Marcus Sorensent misses the shot against Arizona Coyotes goalie Darcy Kuemper in the second period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

San Jose Sharks' Marcus Sorensent misses the shot against Arizona Coyotes goalie Darcy Kuemper in the second period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland (83) looks towards the puck against the San Jose Sharks in the 1st period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland (83) looks towards the puck against the San Jose Sharks in the 1st period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Richard Panik (14) scores against San Jose Sharks goalie Aaron Dell in the first period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Richard Panik (14) scores against San Jose Sharks goalie Aaron Dell in the first period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Josh Archibald scores an empty net goal against the San Jose Sharks in the third period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Josh Archibald scores an empty net goal against the San Jose Sharks in the third period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes Alex Galchenyuk (17) celebrates his goal against the San Jose Sharks in the third period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes Alex Galchenyuk (17) celebrates his goal against the San Jose Sharks in the third period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes Alex Galchenyuk (left) scores a goal against the San Jose Sharks in the third period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes Alex Galchenyuk (left) scores a goal against the San Jose Sharks in the third period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) celebrates after scoring a goal against the San Jose Sharks in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) celebrates after scoring a goal against the San Jose Sharks in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) celebrates after scoring a goal against the San Jose Sharks in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) celebrates after scoring a goal against the San Jose Sharks in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Richard Panik (14) has his shot blocked by San Jose Sharks goalie Aaron Dell in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Richard Panik (14) has his shot blocked by San Jose Sharks goalie Aaron Dell in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Lawson Crouse (67) scores a goal against the San Jose Sharks in the 1st period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Lawson Crouse (67) scores a goal against the San Jose Sharks in the 1st period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland (83) battles for the puck with San Jose Sharks goalie Aaron Dell in the 1st period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland (83) battles for the puck with San Jose Sharks goalie Aaron Dell in the 1st period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Ilya Lyubushkin (46) battles with San Jose Sharks' Kevin Labanc in the 1st period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Ilya Lyubushkin (46) battles with San Jose Sharks' Kevin Labanc in the 1st period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes rookie Conor Garland (83) and Jordan Oesterle (82) during warm-ups before playing the San Jose Sharks on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes rookie Conor Garland (83) and Jordan Oesterle (82) during warm-ups before playing the San Jose Sharks on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes rookie Conor Garland with a black-eye warming-up before playing the San Jose Sharks on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes rookie Conor Garland with a black-eye warming-up before playing the San Jose Sharks on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) celebrates after scoring a goal against the San Jose Sharks in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) celebrates after scoring a goal against the San Jose Sharks in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland against the San Jose Sharks in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland against the San Jose Sharks in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland against the San Jose Sharks in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland against the San Jose Sharks in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland against the San Jose Sharks in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland against the San Jose Sharks in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) celebrates after scoring a goal against the San Jose Sharks in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) celebrates after scoring a goal against the San Jose Sharks in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Richard Panik (14) has his shot blocked by San Jose Sharks goalie Aaron Dell in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Richard Panik (14) has his shot blocked by San Jose Sharks goalie Aaron Dell in the 2nd period on Jan. 16 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes goalie Adin Hill loses the puck during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Calgary Flames, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2019, in Calgary, Alberta. Jeff McIntosh/AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goalie Adin Hill loses the puck during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Calgary Flames, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2019, in Calgary, Alberta.
Jeff McIntosh/AP

Arizona Coyotes' Mario Kempe, center, of Sweden, tries to get the puck past Calgary Flames goalie Mike Smith during the first period of an NHL hockey game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2019, in Calgary, Alberta. Jeff McIntosh/AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Mario Kempe, center, of Sweden, tries to get the puck past Calgary Flames goalie Mike Smith during the first period of an NHL hockey game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2019, in Calgary, Alberta.
Jeff McIntosh/AP

Arizona Coyotes' Richard Panik, right, of the Czech Republic, has his shot deflected by Calgary Flames goalie Mike Smith during the first period of an NHL hockey game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2019, in Calgary, Alberta. Jeff McIntosh/AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Richard Panik, right, of the Czech Republic, has his shot deflected by Calgary Flames goalie Mike Smith during the first period of an NHL hockey game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2019, in Calgary, Alberta.
Jeff McIntosh/AP

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland (83) is helped off the ice after taking a puck to the head during the second period against the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday, Jan. 12, 2019, in Edmonton Alberta. (Jason Franson/The Canadian Press via AP) JASON FRANSON, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland (83) is helped off the ice after taking a puck to the head during the second period against the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday, Jan. 12, 2019, in Edmonton Alberta. (Jason Franson/The Canadian Press via AP)
JASON FRANSON, AP

(Editor's Note: Graphic Content) Jan 12, 2019; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Arizona Coyotes trainer looks after forward Conor Garland (83) who was cut by a shot that deflected off his face and into the Edmonton Oilers net for a goal during the second period. (Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports) Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

(Editor's Note: Graphic Content) Jan 12, 2019; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Arizona Coyotes trainer looks after forward Conor Garland (83) who was cut by a shot that deflected off his face and into the Edmonton Oilers net for a goal during the second period. (Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports)
Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports

Coyotes' Ilya Lyubushkin (46) is hit by Rangers' Mats Zuccarello (36) during the third period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Ilya Lyubushkin (46) is hit by Rangers' Mats Zuccarello (36) during the third period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) gathers the puck for a shot against Rangers' Adam McQuaid (54) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) gathers the puck for a shot against Rangers' Adam McQuaid (54) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Derek Stepan (21) talks with Rangers' goalie Henrik Lundqvist (30) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Derek Stepan (21) talks with Rangers' goalie Henrik Lundqvist (30) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Nick Cousins (25) celebrates a goal against the Rangers during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Nick Cousins (25) celebrates a goal against the Rangers during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Nick Cousins (25) celebrates a goal against the Rangers during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Nick Cousins (25) celebrates a goal against the Rangers during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Alex Galchenyuk (17) and Conor Garland (83) celebrate a goal from Nick Cousins against the Rangers during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Alex Galchenyuk (17) and Conor Garland (83) celebrate a goal from Nick Cousins against the Rangers during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Clayton Keller (9) gathers the puck after a save from Rangers' goalie Henrik Lundqvist (30) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Clayton Keller (9) gathers the puck after a save from Rangers' goalie Henrik Lundqvist (30) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Laurent Dauphin (12) skates down ice against the Rangers during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Laurent Dauphin (12) skates down ice against the Rangers during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Vinnie Hinostroza (13) and Rangers' Brady Skjei (76) get tied up after Hinostroza forced goalie Henrik Lundqvist into his own goal during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Vinnie Hinostroza (13) and Rangers' Brady Skjei (76) get tied up after Hinostroza forced goalie Henrik Lundqvist into his own goal during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Jakob Chychurn (6) skates past Rangers' Mats Zuccarello (36) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Jakob Chychurn (6) skates past Rangers' Mats Zuccarello (36) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) looks for teammates during the first period against the Rangers at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) looks for teammates during the first period against the Rangers at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' head coach Rick Tocchet talks with his team during the first period against the Rangers at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' head coach Rick Tocchet talks with his team during the first period against the Rangers at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Conor Garland (83) gets a loose puck against Rangers' Marc Staal (18) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Conor Garland (83) gets a loose puck against Rangers' Marc Staal (18) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) is greeted by teammates after scoring during the first period against the Rangers at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) is greeted by teammates after scoring during the first period against the Rangers at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) is greeted by teammates after scoring during the first period against the Rangers at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) is greeted by teammates after scoring during the first period against the Rangers at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' goalie Darcy Kuemper (35) falls after making a save agains the Rangers during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' goalie Darcy Kuemper (35) falls after making a save agains the Rangers during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Mario Kempe (29) celebrates scoring with Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) during the first period against the Rangers at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Mario Kempe (29) celebrates scoring with Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) during the first period against the Rangers at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Mario Kempe (29) celebrates scoring with his teammates during the first period against the Rangers at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Mario Kempe (29) celebrates scoring with his teammates during the first period against the Rangers at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) comes off the ice after an injury against the Rangers during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) comes off the ice after an injury against the Rangers during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) comes off the ice after an injury against the Rangers during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019. Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) comes off the ice after an injury against the Rangers during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on January 6, 2019.
Patrick Breen/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Derek Stepan against the New Jersey Devils in the second period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Derek Stepan against the New Jersey Devils in the second period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) scores a goal against the New Jersey Devils in the second period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) scores a goal against the New Jersey Devils in the second period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) celebrates his goal against the New Jersey Devils in the second period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) celebrates his goal against the New Jersey Devils in the second period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) celebrates his goal against the New Jersey Devils in the second period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) celebrates his goal against the New Jersey Devils in the second period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Nick Cousins (25) controls the puck against the New Jersey Devils in the second period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Nick Cousins (25) controls the puck against the New Jersey Devils in the second period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Clayton Keller knocks the goal away as New Jersey Devils' Nico Hischier scores a goal in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Clayton Keller knocks the goal away as New Jersey Devils' Nico Hischier scores a goal in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Clayton Keller knocks the goal away as New Jersey Devils' Nico Hischier scores a goal in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Clayton Keller knocks the goal away as New Jersey Devils' Nico Hischier scores a goal in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Clayton Keller knocks the goal away as New Jersey Devils' Nico Hischier scores a goal in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Clayton Keller knocks the goal away as New Jersey Devils' Nico Hischier scores a goal in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Clayton Keller is driven into the boards by New Jersey Devils' Travis Zajac in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Clayton Keller is driven into the boards by New Jersey Devils' Travis Zajac in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Alex Galchenyuk (17) comes to help Clayton Keller after he was driven into the boards by New Jersey Devils' Travis Zajac (19) in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Alex Galchenyuk (17) comes to help Clayton Keller after he was driven into the boards by New Jersey Devils' Travis Zajac (19) in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Clayton Keller is driven into the boards which started a fight with New Jersey Devils in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Clayton Keller is driven into the boards which started a fight with New Jersey Devils in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland prepares to score a goal against the New Jersey Devils in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland prepares to score a goal against the New Jersey Devils in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland (right) scores a goal against the New Jersey Devils in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena. Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Conor Garland (right) scores a goal against the New Jersey Devils in the 1st period on Jan. 4 at Gila River Arena.
Rob Schumacher/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) blocks a shot against the Edmonton Oilers during the third period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) blocks a shot against the Edmonton Oilers during the third period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) scores an empty net goal against the Arizona Coyotes during the third period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) scores an empty net goal against the Arizona Coyotes during the third period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) looks to pass while defended by Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jordan Oesterle (82) during the third period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) looks to pass while defended by Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jordan Oesterle (82) during the third period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes center Clayton Keller (9) loses the puck in front of the goal and Edmonton Oilers defenseman Caleb Jones (82) during the third period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes center Clayton Keller (9) loses the puck in front of the goal and Edmonton Oilers defenseman Caleb Jones (82) during the third period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes right wing Conor Garland (83) reaches for the puck against Edmonton Oilers defenseman Matt Benning (83) during the third period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes right wing Conor Garland (83) reaches for the puck against Edmonton Oilers defenseman Matt Benning (83) during the third period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes center Nick Cousins (25) corals the puck while defended by Edmonton Oilers defenseman Caleb Jones (82) during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes center Nick Cousins (25) corals the puck while defended by Edmonton Oilers defenseman Caleb Jones (82) during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes center Clayton Keller (9) takes a stick across the face from Edmonton Oilers defenseman Matt Benning (83) during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes center Clayton Keller (9) takes a stick across the face from Edmonton Oilers defenseman Matt Benning (83) during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes center Nick Cousins (25) works the puck against Edmonton Oilers center Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (93) during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes center Nick Cousins (25) works the puck against Edmonton Oilers center Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (93) during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Edmonton Oilers right wing Jesse Puljujarvi (98) looks for the puck against Arizona Coyotes left wing Lawson Crouse (67) during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Edmonton Oilers right wing Jesse Puljujarvi (98) looks for the puck against Arizona Coyotes left wing Lawson Crouse (67) during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) flips his hair back during a timeout against the Edmonton Oilers in the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) flips his hair back during a timeout against the Edmonton Oilers in the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes head coach Rick Tocchet argues for a call against the Edmonton Oilers during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes head coach Rick Tocchet argues for a call against the Edmonton Oilers during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Kevin Connauton (44) dumps the puck in against Edmonton Oilers defenseman Alexander Petrovic (15) during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Kevin Connauton (44) dumps the puck in against Edmonton Oilers defenseman Alexander Petrovic (15) during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Edmonton Oilers fans cheer for center Connor McDavid (97) during the second period against the Arizona Coyotes in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Edmonton Oilers fans cheer for center Connor McDavid (97) during the second period against the Arizona Coyotes in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) watched the puck go wide against the Edmonton Oilers during the first period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) watched the puck go wide against the Edmonton Oilers during the first period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) defends the net against Edmonton Oilers right wing Ty Rattie (8) during the first period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) defends the net against Edmonton Oilers right wing Ty Rattie (8) during the first period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes center Clayton Keller (9) prepares to shoot while defended by Edmonton Oilers right wing Zack Kassian (44) during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes center Clayton Keller (9) prepares to shoot while defended by Edmonton Oilers right wing Zack Kassian (44) during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Kevin Connauton (44) dumps the puck in against Edmonton Oilers defenseman Alexander Petrovic (15) during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Kevin Connauton (44) dumps the puck in against Edmonton Oilers defenseman Alexander Petrovic (15) during the second period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) makes a save in front of Edmonton Oilers right wing Ty Rattie (8) during the first period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) makes a save in front of Edmonton Oilers right wing Ty Rattie (8) during the first period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) makes a save off a deflection by Edmonton Oilers right wing Ty Rattie (8) during the first period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) makes a save off a deflection by Edmonton Oilers right wing Ty Rattie (8) during the first period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) spreads out in front of Edmonton Oilers right wing Ty Rattie (8) during the first period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) spreads out in front of Edmonton Oilers right wing Ty Rattie (8) during the first period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) watches the puck against the Edmonton Oilers during the first period in Glendale January 2, 2019. Michael Chow/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Adin Hill (31) watches the puck against the Edmonton Oilers during the first period in Glendale January 2, 2019.
Michael Chow/The Republic

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 29: Arizona Coyotes goalie Adin Hill (31) in action during the first period of a game against the Anaheim Ducks played on December 29, 2018 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA. (Photo by John Cordes/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) Icon Sportswire, Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 29: Arizona Coyotes goalie Adin Hill (31) in action during the first period of a game against the Anaheim Ducks played on December 29, 2018 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA. (Photo by John Cordes/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Icon Sportswire, Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 29: Jakob Chychrun #6 of the Arizona Coyotes gets up off the ice after a hit during the game against the Anaheim Ducks on December 29, 2018 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Debora Robinson/NHLI via Getty Images) Debora Robinson, NHLI via Getty Images

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 29: Jakob Chychrun #6 of the Arizona Coyotes gets up off the ice after a hit during the game against the Anaheim Ducks on December 29, 2018 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Debora Robinson/NHLI via Getty Images)
Debora Robinson, NHLI via Getty Images

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 29: Oliver Ekman-Larsson #23 of the Arizona Coyotes winds up for a shot and goal against John Gibson #36 and Ryan Kesler #17 of the Anaheim Ducks during the game on December 29, 2018 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Debora Robinson/NHLI via Getty Images) Debora Robinson, NHLI via Getty Images

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 29: Oliver Ekman-Larsson #23 of the Arizona Coyotes winds up for a shot and goal against John Gibson #36 and Ryan Kesler #17 of the Anaheim Ducks during the game on December 29, 2018 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Debora Robinson/NHLI via Getty Images)
Debora Robinson, NHLI via Getty Images

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 29: Brandon Montour #26 of the Anaheim Ducks gets tangled up with Clayton Keller #9 of the Arizona Coyotes during the game on December 29, 2018 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Debora Robinson/NHLI via Getty Images) Debora Robinson, NHLI via Getty Images

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 29: Brandon Montour #26 of the Anaheim Ducks gets tangled up with Clayton Keller #9 of the Arizona Coyotes during the game on December 29, 2018 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Debora Robinson/NHLI via Getty Images)
Debora Robinson, NHLI via Getty Images

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 29: Derek Stepan #21, Alex Galchenyuk #17, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson #23 of the Arizona Coyotes celebrate a first period goal during the game against the Anaheim Ducks on December 29, 2018 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Debora Robinson/NHLI via Getty Images) Debora Robinson, NHLI via Getty Images

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 29: Derek Stepan #21, Alex Galchenyuk #17, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson #23 of the Arizona Coyotes celebrate a first period goal during the game against the Anaheim Ducks on December 29, 2018 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Debora Robinson/NHLI via Getty Images)
Debora Robinson, NHLI via Getty Images

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson, left, celebrates after scoring after with center Alex Galchenyuk during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Anaheim Ducks in Anaheim, Calif., Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson) Chris Carlson, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson, left, celebrates after scoring after with center Alex Galchenyuk during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Anaheim Ducks in Anaheim, Calif., Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)
Chris Carlson, AP

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 29: Arizona Coyotes rightwing Conor Garland (83) on the ice during warm-ups before a game against the Anaheim Ducks played on December 29, 2018 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA. (Photo by John Cordes/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) Icon Sportswire, Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 29: Arizona Coyotes rightwing Conor Garland (83) on the ice during warm-ups before a game against the Anaheim Ducks played on December 29, 2018 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA. (Photo by John Cordes/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Icon Sportswire, Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Darcy Kuemper (35) makes a save against the San Jose Sharks' Timo Meier (28) in the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Josie Lepe) Josie Lepe, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Darcy Kuemper (35) makes a save against the San Jose Sharks' Timo Meier (28) in the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Josie Lepe)
Josie Lepe, AP

San Jose Sharks' Logan Couture (39) shoots the puck against the Arizona Coyotes' Richard Panik (14) in the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Josie Lepe) Josie Lepe, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

San Jose Sharks' Logan Couture (39) shoots the puck against the Arizona Coyotes' Richard Panik (14) in the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Josie Lepe)
Josie Lepe, AP

Arizona Coyotes' Alex Galchenyuk (17) and Clayton Keller (9) celebrate after scoring against the San Jose Sharks in the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Josie Lepe) Josie Lepe, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Alex Galchenyuk (17) and Clayton Keller (9) celebrate after scoring against the San Jose Sharks in the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Josie Lepe)
Josie Lepe, AP

San Jose Sharks' Joonas Donskoi (27) battles for the puck against the Arizona Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) in the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Josie Lepe) Josie Lepe, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

San Jose Sharks' Joonas Donskoi (27) battles for the puck against the Arizona Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) in the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Josie Lepe)
Josie Lepe, AP

San Jose Sharks' Joe Pavelski (8) battles for the puck against Arizona Coyotes' Darcy Kuemper (35), Alex Goligoski (33) and Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) in the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Josie Lepe) Josie Lepe, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

San Jose Sharks' Joe Pavelski (8) battles for the puck against Arizona Coyotes' Darcy Kuemper (35), Alex Goligoski (33) and Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) in the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Josie Lepe)
Josie Lepe, AP

Arizona Coyotes' Alex Galchenyuk (17) celebrates with Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) after scoring his second goal of the night against the San Jose Sharks in the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Josie Lepe) Josie Lepe, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Alex Galchenyuk (17) celebrates with Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) after scoring his second goal of the night against the San Jose Sharks in the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Josie Lepe)
Josie Lepe, AP

Arizona Coyotes' Alex Galchenyuk (17) celebrates after scoring his second goal of the night against the San Jose Sharks in the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Josie Lepe) Josie Lepe, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes' Alex Galchenyuk (17) celebrates after scoring his second goal of the night against the San Jose Sharks in the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Josie Lepe)
Josie Lepe, AP

Arizona Coyotes right wing Josh Archibald (45) tries to get to the puck as linesman Brandon Gawryletz moves out of the way during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Colorado Avalanche Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin) Ross D. Franklin, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes right wing Josh Archibald (45) tries to get to the puck as linesman Brandon Gawryletz moves out of the way during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Colorado Avalanche Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
Ross D. Franklin, AP

Arizona Coyotes right wing Conor Garland (83) celebrates his goal, the first in his NHL career, during the second period of an NHL hockey game against the Colorado Avalanche Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin) Ross D. Franklin, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes right wing Conor Garland (83) celebrates his goal, the first in his NHL career, during the second period of an NHL hockey game against the Colorado Avalanche Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
Ross D. Franklin, AP

Stop me if you’ve heard this one before: A key member of the Coyotes is expected to be out for a significant amount of time with a knee injury.

It’s a statement the Coyotes have had to make on several occasions this season, the most recent being center Nick Schmaltz, whom the team announced Tuesday will miss the remainder of the season. Other key players in the organization such as Antti Raanta, Jason Demers, Jakob Chychrun, Alex Galchenyuk and Nick Merkley have missed a significant amount of time due to knee injuries this season.

Three of those players (Chychrun, Galchenyuk and Merkley) have since returned to game action, but Raanta and Demers are out indefinitely and neither are guaranteed to return this season, though Demers is more likely. Christian Dvorak (torn pectoral) and Michael Grabner (eye) are also both out indefinitely.

Arizona Coyotes center Nick Schmaltz (8) is congratulated after scoring a goal against the Nashville Predators in the second period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Nov. 29, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)(Photo: Mark Humphrey, AP)

Schmaltz’s absence hurts just as much as any of them and could represent the nail in the coffin that holds the Coyotes’ already-slim playoff chances.

Since being acquired in a trade with the Blackhawks that also sent Dylan Strome and Brendan Perlini to Chicago, Schmaltz has amassed 14 points (five goals, nine assists) in 17 games serving as a top-six center with the Coyotes.

Not only did Schmaltz serve as a ballast for the team’s lineup during 5-on-5 play, but the 22-year-old was a dangerous presence on the Coyotes’ top power-play unit and displayed palpable chemistry with Clayton Keller on the man-advantage.

Schmaltz is likely the most versatile forward in Arizona’s fold, possessing speed, skill, creativity, intelligence and defense, among other things.

“(Schmaltz) came in and was basically what we had hoped for,” Coyotes President of Hockey Operations and General Manager John Chayka said. “He was a difference-maker. He made high-end plays, came with speed and made plays down the middle of the ice. That combined with his ability to be an elite half-wall guy and bring that dynamic, it really gave us a boost.

“It’s a tough loss, but we’ve now experienced a few of these injuries and guys have stepped up and done a nice job.”

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 29: Arizona Coyotes rightwing Conor Garland (83) on the ice during warm-ups before a game against the Anaheim Ducks played on December 29, 2018 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA. (Photo by John Cordes/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)(Photo: Icon Sportswire, Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

The Coyotes have, perhaps surprisingly, managed to tread water in the Western Conference playoff race. They enter play Wednesday just six points off the playoff pace and at least one game in hand on most teams in front of them in the standings.

“Every team faces some sort of adversity throughout the year and ours just seems to be injuries,” Coyotes assistant captain Derek Stepan said. “It’s the world we live in right now. We’ve got guys banged up, but I feel like we’ve left points out there. … As we sit now, we’re in the hunt. Realistically, we’ve got to win a lot of hockey games. It’s not easy to make the playoffs, and I’m not saying it’s impossible, but you never know what will happen.

“I think our group has faced the adversity extremely well and has had that hard-working mindset. Those things are a good formula.”

According to @ManGamesLostNHL, a Twitter account that tracks the amount of total games lost by injury for each team, the Coyotes currently rank second behind the Anaheim Ducks for the most man-games lost to injury this season. Forecasting suggests the Coyotes will likely surpass the Ducks in a few weeks for the NHL lead.

While the Coyotes are trying to control what they can, it’s becoming more and more challenging each day to ignore the growing list of players on the injury report. For Coyotes head coach Rick Tocchet, the simplest approach seems to be the appropriate one.

“I think, as a coach, we’ve taken the approach a little while ago where if you think about other stuff you lose focus as a staff,” Tocchet said. “If somebody says, ‘This guy can’t play,’ then (Michael) Bunting comes in and we’ve got to make sure Bunting does the stuff we want him to do.

“You have to have that approach as a coaching staff otherwise you’ll drive yourself crazy.”

If both Kevin Connauton, who is day-to-day with a lower-body injury, and Josh Archibald, whose wife is days away from giving birth, are forced to miss Thursday’s game against the Vancouver Canucks, the Coyotes will be without eight regulars from their 23-man roster.

As Christian Fischer said after a recent game, the Coyotes are “at a point where we need every point.” As the injuries continue to pile up on this team, those points will get tougher and tougher to come by.

Coyotes' Christian Fischer (36) misses a chance to redirect a shot on Canucks' goalie Anders Nilsson (31) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on October 25, 2018. (Photo: Patrick Breen/The Republic)

Still, the Coyotes aren’t hanging up the skates just yet.

“Each injury is a bigger chunk and a bigger chunk and a bigger chunk,” Stepan said. “Obviously ‘Schmaltzy’ really balanced out our lineup really well and added an element that we didn’t otherwise have. … With all that going on, it’s next man up. It seems like the cliche thing to say, but we don’t have a choice. This is our situation and we have some big roles open.

“If we’re going to compete for the playoffs, everyone needs to grab a chunk of the rope and pull.”

Richard Morin covers the Coyotes and Diamondbacks for azcentral sports. He can be reached at rmorin@arizonarepublic.com and by phone at 480-316-2493. Follow him on Twitter @ramorin_azc.

Thursday’s game

Coyotes at Canucks

When: 8 p.m.

Where: Rogers Arena, Vancouver.

TV/Radio: FSAZ/KMVP-FM (98.7).

Outlook: The Arizona Coyotes (18-21-3) begin a three-game road trip when they visit the Vancouver Canucks (20-21-4) on Thursday at Rogers Arena in Vancouver. … The games will all be against Pacific Division rivals in western Canada, also featuring games in Edmonton (Saturday) and Calgary (Sunday). … The Canucks, who have lost two of their last three games, will begin a six-game homestand with Thursday’s game against the Coyotes. … This is the second of four meetings between the teams this season, with the Coyotes taking a 4-1 victory over the Canucks on Oct. 25. … The Canucks are led in scoring by rookie Elias Pettersson with 42 points (22 goals, 20 assists) and center Bo Horvat with 36 points (17 goals, 19 assists).